Testing | Checking | Measuring

Building physics testing

Fraunhofer IBP is focused on research, development and testing in all fields of building physics. Based on the competence of more than 350 scientists, engineers and technicians numerous outstanding testing resources and measuring instruments are available. Knowledge, experience and creativity can be offered as the keys to innovative products and sustainable quality of buildings. 

We carry out complex building physics studies at our efficient and  well-equipped laboratories and test centers and at our outdoor testing site in Holzkirchen, which to the best of our knowledge is the largest facility of its kind. Modern laboratory measuring techniques and computational methods help researchers develop and optimize building products for practical applications. We also carry out experiments in environmental test chambers, simulation facilities and existing buildings to assess components and overall systems for new buildings and renovation projects based on the principles of building physics.

Fraunhofer IBP has been approved by the German building inspection authorities as a testing, monitoring and certification center for building materials and buildng techniques in Germany and the rest of Europe. Five of the institute's test laboratories have been granted flexible accreditation by the German accreditation body Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH (DAkkS) in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025. This entitles them to develop new test methods and to modify existing methods.

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  • In the hearing threshold laboratory, we conduct precise hearing threshold measurements and hearing tests. This purpose-built laboratory is designed to conduct measurements near the threshold of hearing and to perform comprehensive sound evaluations. The laboratory creates optimal conditions for subject tests in order to accurately evaluate building-physical sounds, product sounds or environmental sounds via headphones. The special design minimizes interference from external noise, ensuring precise and reliable psychoacoustic measurements.

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  • Vehicle on the all-wheel drive chassis dynamometer in the vehicle acoustics test bench
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    Vehicle on the all-wheel drive chassis dynamometer in the vehicle acoustics test bench from the front.

    The semi-anechoic chamber with all-wheel drive chassis dynamometer at Fraunhofer IBP provides a state-of-the-art environment for conducting detailed acoustic tests on vehicles. This testing facility makes it possible to realistically simulate driving conditions for cars, vans and motorcycles in order to accurately measure both interior and exterior noise. Among other tests, we use the facility to carry out simulated pass-by noise tests according to ISO 362-3 and UN-ECE R51, in which the exterior noise is measured at a defined distance. In addition to a Safety-Walk™ surface, rough asphalt surface elements or impact bars can be installed. Thanks to a versatile pallet changing system, vehicles can be efficiently prepared for decoupling studies, for example, or to mount sensors. The facility also boasts a fully-equipped workshop with lifting platforms, tire fitting and wheel balancing stations, as well as a fast-charging station for electric vehicles.

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  • Acoustic camera
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    The acoustic camera enables real-time sound source localization.

    The acoustic camera uses an array of microphones to precisely localize sound sources. The sounds emitted by a source are recorded by several microphones. The differences in the time of arrival of the incoming sounds (phase position) can be used to draw conclusions about their location and intensity. A color noise map created from these signals is optically superimposed on the photo or video of the object under investigation.

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  • Impedance tube 100 mm
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    Impedance tube (100 mm diameter).

    Measuring sound absorption in the impedance tube offers manufacturers and users of absorber materials the opportunity to test their products under standardized conditions. Besides the absorption coefficient, impedance is also measured in order to obtain detailed information about the material. Since only small-sized samples are needed, this method is particularly suitable for developing and optimizing new materials. In addition, fully-developed products can be certified in accordance with DIN EN ISO 10534-2.

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  • Test tunnel of the silencer testing facility with siund source
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    Test tunnel of the silencer testing facility with sound source as seen from the transmitter room.

    Our state-of-the-art testing facilities at Fraunhofer IBP are specially designed to provide advanced solutions in silencer and component testing. We perform standardized measurements in compliance with DIN EN ISO 7235 to precisely analyze the insertion loss, sound power and pressure losses of your products. Equipped with both rectangular and round test tunnels, our facilities enable us to carry out comprehensive tests on silencers and other components used in ventilation and process air systems. The tests we carry out ensure that your products are developed with the highest quality and efficiency, so you can be certain that your solutions meet the strictest international standards.

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  • Wall of sound absorbers
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    Acoustic semi-anechoic chamber (wall of sound absorbers) for measuring the sound pressure level and directional response pattern of a sound source.

    At Fraunhofer IBP in the Acoustic Department's acoustically optimized semi-anechoic chamber, you have the opportunity to carry out precise sound measurements under optimal conditions. This chamber simulates the acoustic conditions of a free field above a reflecting plane and makes it possible to accurately determine the radiated sound power and directional characteristics of sound sources. Thanks to the special sound-absorbing materials that line the walls and ceilings, reflections are minimized, and an authentic free field is created.

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  • Freifeldraum am Fraunhofer IBP
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    Our anechoic chamber is a state-of-the-art testing facility specially designed for carrying out precise acoustic measurements. Thanks to the acoustically optimized environment, which corresponds to the conditions of a free field, we can analyze sound sources with the highest accuracy. The walls and ceilings of the chamber are lined with special sound-absorbing materials such as wedge absorbers, which almost completely eliminate reflections. This enables sound power and directional characteristics to be precisely determined in accordance with the DIN EN ISO 3745 standard.

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  • Close-up turbine wind tunnel
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    Turbine wind tunnel for generating an air flow around the wind tunnel (close-up).

    Using our specialized wind tunnel, we can conduct precise analyses of flow noise in accordance with DIN EN ISO 7235. The low-noise air flow allows us to precisely measure the aerodynamic noise generated on surfaces. This helps optimize components for use in ventilation and process air applications. Our tests provide crucial data for improving silencers and other components. We offer comprehensive solutions, particularly in the fields of fluid mechanics and aerodynamics, quality assurance and certification, as well as industrial applications and environmental technology. Our services are designed to optimize products with regard to noise emissions and efficiency. With our outstanding testing facility, we help companies perfect their components in terms of sound attenuation and airflow. We use the latest equipment and maximum precision to ensure that the results meet our high quality standards.

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  • Emission coefficient

    Hygrothermics

    measuring principle emissiometer
    © Fraunhofer IBP

    measuring principle emissiometer

    Characterizing the infrared reflectance and emissivity of surfaces using a hemispherical blackbody radiator in accordance with DIN 22097 and 15976.

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